The effect of ascochyta blight on chickpea yields and economics when infection occurs at 3 different growth stages

Abstract

Key findings • Variety choice remains a critical management tool under high disease pressure: gross margin (GM) loss of $300/ha in Kyabra[PBR] compared with gains of up to $1000 in PBA Seamer[PBR] when no fungicide was applied. • Preventative fungicide applications before seedling infection have the greatest effect in reducing disease severity. • Salvage fungicide applications on seedling infections in susceptible varieties is insufficient in preventing yield loss • Applying fungicide during early podding might reduce yield loss if ascochyta blight (AB) is present and a wet-season finish is predicted.